Ever since I was a child, I have loved cheering for the underdogs. Whether I am watching a movie, reading a novel, or hearing of real–life events, my heart is drawn to those who face impossible odds and seem to have everything going against them. Maybe that’s one of the reasons why I gravitate toward certain stories in the Bible. It is no accident that I named this series, Behind the Seen: Exploring the Bible’s Unsung Heroes. Like Hagar and the man with the Legion, Tamar is an example of someone often overlooked—not only in the time that she lived, but in today’s preaching and teaching as well.

Though few may take notice of Tamar, God chose to weave her into His grand redemptive story for a reason. And like many unsung heroes, Tamar had a lot going against her, especially in the time and culture in which she lived. Not only was she a woman, but she was also Canaanite—an ethnic group that God’s people were strictly forbidden to marry. If those strikes against her were not enough, at one point she even disguises herself as a prostitute and . . . well, we will get to that soon enough.

Simply mentioning Tamar’s name to those who have heard of her story can invite all kinds of reactions: a lip curl in disgust, a groan of disdain, perhaps one will sigh in pity. Plenty are quick to judge, yet few have explored the depths of her story. But like many events in the Bible, if we take the time to dig deep into God’s Word, to examine how the story fits into the bigger picture, we will often discover that there is far more going on behind the seen. As you explore Tamar’s story in the coming weeks, you will have an opportunity to decide for yourself. Some call her courageous; others pronounce condemnation. Nonetheless, Tamar’s choices altered the trajectory of human history—and still echo in the heavens today.

And yet, when we look back through the generations, even among God’s own people, we discover that Tamar was not alone. All of human history is basically an unending cycle of dysfunction and failure, but in His mercy, God does not abandon us there! His plan of redemption was written from eternity past—in spite of the dysfunction, failure, and sin that He knew would unfold along the way. And for reasons known only to Him, God chose to invite Tamar into His glorious plan.

So, my friend, are you ready for an adventure? A story of a woman facing impossible odds, whose life intersects with the One who overcomes the impossible? Then come with me! Let’s rediscover the God Who Redeems Me!

Your sister in Christ,

Shadia

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace . . .”

Ephesians 1:7